Fisher to Celebrate First-Gen Day

On Monday, Nov. 8, St. John Fisher College will celebrate all first-generation students, faculty, staff, and alumni during a First-Gen Day reception in the Golisano Gateway Midlevel at 4:30 p.m. Attendees will hear from first-generation students from the campus community, including President Rooney, who will share what their journey as a first-generation student has meant for them.

First-Gen Day is a national celebration of first-generation college students that started in 2017 by the Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) and the Center for First-Generation Student Success. Gabe Iturbides, program director of Fisher’s TRIO Program Student Support Services and member of Fisher’s First-Gen Committee, recognizes the importance of celebrating current first-generation students.

“Celebrating First-Gen students is so important because they are embarking on a journey that their family simply has not been able to fulfill. Many of the steps they take are new to them and their families, but their success is crucial to the trajectory of future generations in their family and communities,” he said.

The reception will include hors d’oeuvres and light refreshments, photo opportunities, and giveaways. In addition, the Committee will be recognizing December 2021 and May 2022 first-generation Fisher graduates.

Employees who were first-generation students are asked to participate by sharing their story. Those interested in attending the reception are asked to register online.